A life of purpose, passion and power: The empowering journey of LadySam

In a world that often demands women to dim their light to fit in, Ms. Samantha Wuta-Ofei, well known as LadySam, has chosen to shine unapologetically.

Her story is one of resilience, reinvention and an unwavering commitment to purpose. A confident communicator, a seasoned trainer and a passionate advocate for women and youth, LadySam embodies a life shaped by strong values, powerful storytelling and intentional empowerment.

Early life: Roots and inspirations

Born in Tooting but raised in Hammersmith and Fulham, United Kingdom, LadySam was the last of four children raised by her mother, Aunty Stella — a disciplined yet nurturing woman who served as a personal assistant for several years at GlaxoSmithKline.

Her father, affectionately called Uncle OB, was a journalist and businessman whose influence sparked her early love for words and storytelling.

“My dad was a journalist who wrote for the Evening Standard and later launched his own newspaper, The Platform. When I was just 14, he made me his junior editor,” she recalls proudly. It was a formative moment—one that planted the seeds for her future as a communicator and influencer.

Childhood for LadySam was both disciplined and warm. Her mother ruled the household with love and military-like precision. “When it got to 8 p.m., she would only need to give us a certain look and say ‘bed,’ and we’d all march off without question because we all knew what would happen if we didn’t,” she says.

She recounted that being the youngest came with its perks as she was a bit spoilt—but also served as the foundation for her confidence and outspoken nature. Sundays were a highlight, filled with family bonding over movies and dessert. “Those are some of my fondest memories—so many laughs and good times,” she recalls.

LadySam draws much of her inspiration from strong female figures like—her mother, her older sister and global icons like Oprah Winfrey. “My sister has always been a role model for me, though I didn’t tell her until she got married.

That moment changed the way we related to each other. Another external influence was Oprah Winfrey. I was completely fascinated by how she became so successful, particularly as a darker-skinned Black woman in America—her achievements were impressive to me.

“Interestingly, it was my white best friend from school who first got me to know about Oprah. She told me she could see me doing a talk show like Oprah’s because of the way I enjoyed holding conversations and interviewing people.

Now that I think about it, I’m wondering if she was trying to tell me I was nosy! I wouldn’t be surprised—I was always trying to get into people’s business, or at least understand them better.”

Connection to Ghana

LadySam’s connection to Ghana began at the age of eight during a family visit. “I remember being hesitant at first because of all the negative stories we’d hear in the UK. But once I got here, I loved it—the people, the food, the culture.

The smell of fried kelewele still brings back waves of nostalgia,” she narrates. That visit marked the beginning of a life-long bond with Ghana, one that eventually saw her relocate 12 years ago to explore new opportunities and reconnect with her roots.

Educational and professional journey

LadySam’s early academic life was spent in London. She attended Addison Primary School, St. Edmunds R.C School in Hammersmith and Fulham, and Westminster College before moving on to the University of East London where she studied Psychosocial Studies.

Her love for human behaviour, culture and relationships deepened during these years. Later, she pursued a Master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy at Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) in Ghana.

Speaking on her academic pursuits, she recounts: “Studying International Relations helps me understand how countries navigate issues like diplomacy, conflict, security and development. But it also relates to how we build and maintain relationships in any setting—whether it’s between nations or businesses.

“I am currently the training and workshop coordinator for the International Relations and Diplomacy Network Ghana, which presents a unique opportunity to merge my interest and skill set.

Customer relations as a discipline are about understanding different perspectives, communicating well and working toward goals for customer satisfaction. International relations looks at solving global challenges by building strong, positive relationships, both internationally and professionally. This is what piques my interest, it is a win-win for me.”

LadySam is a certified Life Coach, and she is a verified trainer. She has her ILM badge from the College of Public Speaking, 2006 for completing the Advanced Train the Trainer Course.

Career path

LadySam’s career path has been anything but linear, but every role has added a layer to her versatility. From starting out in marketing, transitioning to customer service at British Airways, working in property management, hosting a radio programme, to holding a leadership position at Nestlé, LadySam has worn many hats. Each role has sharpened her skills in communication, leadership and strategy.

Dynamic workshops

Today, she is the founder and lead facilitator of SHIMEI Solution (www.shimeisolutions.com), a training and life coaching service that offers bespoke programmes to individuals, teams, and businesses.

“When I first moved to Ghana, the concept of customer service training was foreign to many. It was tough penetrating the market, but I held on. Today, I get so many testimonies from people whose lives and businesses have been transformed through our workshops,” she says.

LadySam is especially known for her dynamic Vision Board and public speaking workshops. Her sessions are not only informative but also deeply motivational, helping clients unlock their potential and drive business results.

?LadySam possesses a remarkable ability to conceptualise and execute events from the ground up, ensuring each one is impactful and strategically aligned with her objectives.

This skill set allows her to deliver events that not only meet but exceed expectations, reflecting her commitment to excellence and her deep understanding of effective event management.

“One of my biggest strengths lies in empowering individuals to achieve their goals more swiftly by aligning their needs with strategic objectives, leveraging my expertise as a life coach, trainer and marketer,” she says.

Philanthropic initiatives

Beyond business, her heart beats for impact. Her NGO, SHIMEI Empowerment and Education Program (S.E.E.P.), supports girls through mentorship, confidence-building programmes, textbook donations and basic needs support. “S.E.E.P. is about changing mindsets. We want girls to believe that they can dream big and, more importantly, that they can achieve those dreams.”

Impacts

During the COVID-19 pandemic, she curated a virtual series called The Wheel of Life series, a platform that brought experts together to educate and empower audiences on a range of topics—from career growth to mental health.

She also offers free public speaking and vision board workshops for youths who genuinely want to grow but may lack the resources.

Her social media platforms, especially @ladysamgh, serve as a daily dose of inspiration. From motivational skits to thought-provoking discussions, she leverages digital tools to amplify her message.

Her latest initiative, the SHIMEI Star Influential Awards, celebrates unsung heroes in communities who are making significant contributions, often without recognition. “There are so many people doing incredible work behind the scenes. I wanted to create a space to acknowledge and uplift them,” she explains.

Guiding philosophies

Her guiding philosophies are anchored in faith and intentionality. “I am a believer of Christ. Victory lies ahead for those who persevere,” she says.

One of her favourite scriptures is Proverbs 18:21 which talks about the power of the tongue to emphasise her belief in the power of words, adding that one must be careful with their language as words can either build or destroy.

She also believes in curating healthy networks, surrounding herself with individuals who uplift rather than drain one’s energy. “Substance over status”—that’s her mantra.”

LadySam is also a staunch advocate for gender equality. Through her annual INCLUDE Her Conference held every March to coincide with International Women’s Month, she creates a platform to discuss issues affecting women’s access to opportunities, representation and leadership.

She holds strongly that if a woman has the same qualifications as a man, she should have the same chances.

“In my view, people nowadays seem to focus more on material things or the outward appearance. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to look your best; however, I am more interested in those who strive to be their best or work to bring out the best in others. I believe it’s important to surround yourself with like-minded individuals.

“I’m also a strong advocate for women’s rights, and you’ll often find me championing conversations that call for women to be given the same opportunities as men, as long as they have the same qualifications. This is why I’ve been organising women’s conferences for the past six years during International Women’s Month, now known as the INCLUDE Her conference. It’s my opportunity to highlight these critical discussions,” she says.

Family

Despite the accolades and achievements, LadySam remains grounded. Her family continues to be her anchor, and she credits them for much of her drive.

Future aspirations

Looking ahead, LadySam envisions a future where youths and women across Africa are equipped with the tools they need to thrive. She dreams of expanding SHIMEI Solutions and SEEP across the continent and, eventually, the globe.

“There’s so much untapped potential. My job is to help people see it in themselves,” she said, highlighting her unwavering dedication to uplifting others. In every stage of her journey, LadySam has proven that living with purpose, passion and power is not just a slogan—it’s a way of life.

The post A life of purpose, passion and power: The empowering journey of LadySam appeared first on The Business & Financial Times.

Read Full Story